The Complete Guide to the King’s Birthday Long Weekend in Australia

King’s Birthday Long Weekend: A State-by-State Guide

Australians are gearing up for the King’s Birthday Long Weekend, a public holiday that will be celebrated on the same day across most of the states and territories. The last time Australians celebrated a King’s Birthday was in 1951, and this year, King Charles III’s ascendance to the throne has brought the public holiday back with the change of name. However, different states and territories in Australia celebrate this holiday on different days. This article provides a state-by-state guide to who gets to sleep in on June 12.

States That Enjoy a Long Weekend on June 12

New South Wales: All eligible residents in NSW will be given Monday, June 12 as a public holiday.

Victoria: The King’s Birthday falls on Monday, June 12, so it will be celebrated as a public holiday.

South Australia: Most people in South Australia will enjoy a public holiday on June 12 and, therefore, a long weekend, depending on their employment terms.

Australian Capital Territory: All eligible residents in the ACT will be given Monday, June 12 as a public holiday.

Northern Territory: Like all the states and territories except WA and Queensland, the Northern Territory celebrates the King’s birthday long weekend on Monday, June 12.

Tasmania: All eligible residents of Tasmania will be given Monday, June 12 as a public holiday.

States That Celebrate King’s Birthday on a Different Day

Queensland: In Queensland, the King’s Birthday public holiday has been held on the first Monday of October since 2016. This year, that day will be Monday, October 2.

Western Australia: Western Australia does not celebrate the King’s Birthday on June 12, as the state holds Western Australia Day on the first Monday of June. The state spreads out its public holidays, and this year, the King’s Birthday public holiday will fall on Monday, September 25.

Why is the King’s Birthday in June?

The tradition of celebrating the King’s Birthday goes back to the English monarch King George II, who introduced the holiday in 1748. It was then moved to June by Edward VII, who reigned from 1901-1910, to enjoy better weather in the UK as his actual birthday in October/autumn in Britain was likely to see damp, cold conditions that could hamper outdoor events.

In Australia, the King’s Birthday had been celebrated on the same day as the monarch’s actual birthday from 1788 until 1936. After that, the government decided to follow the UK and celebrate the monarchy’s official birthday on a mid-year date to space public holidays more evenly.

Editorial and Advice for the Long Weekend

The King’s Birthday Long Weekend is an opportunity for Australians to relax and enjoy time with their loved ones. With inter-state borders open and many tourist attractions operating, it’s a perfect time for holiday planning and exploring. However, as COVID-19 is still a risk, it is important to adhere to safety guidelines and COVID-19 protocols.

While some states permit alcohol consumption in public areas such as beaches and parks, it’s essential to drink responsibly and take care of yourself and others. Additionally, Australians are recommended to check their state or territories’ public transport website for any changes or disruptions in public transport schedules.

Finally, it’s worth noting that the King’s Birthday Long Weekend is a time to reflect on the role of the monarchy in contemporary Australia and ponder its relevance in shaping our national identity. In turn, this invites philosophical discussions on broader questions of national identity, including our history, traditions, and relationship to the Crown.